SCDOT Receives Permit from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for I-526 Lowcountry Corridor West Project

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March 2, 2023 – Officials with the South Carolina Department of Transportation announced today that they have made another critical step forward on the Interstate 526 Lowcounty Corridor West Project, having received a project permit from the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This project will relieve traffic congestion and improve the flow of traffic at the interchange of I-26 and I-526 and along the existing I-526 corridor.

"Signing this permit marks another major hurdle cleared for the Lowcountry Corridor Project," said Secretary of Transportation Christy A. Hall, P.E. "The expansion of 526 will support the Port of Charleston and the economic activity it brings to South Carolina. Improving the interstate network is a critical part of our Strategic 10-Year Plan, and with the support of Governor McMaster and the General Assembly, we are making incredible progress on our interstate program."

While the design for the I-526 Lowcountry Corridor Project is refined, public involvement meetings and opportunities for public input will continue. Receiving this permit means that the SCDOT can begin mitigation work that will help minimize impacts to surrounding communities. These efforts are expected to begin in 2023, and will include an affordable housing program, business development and education programs, and the planning of community enhancements such as pedestrian facilities and recreation centers.

Implementation of these efforts will continue through construction, which is expected to begin in 2030. For more information about the project, visit Final FEIS-ROD | I-526 Lowcountry Corridor.

About SCDOT

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is the state agency with oversight of South Carolina's network of highways and bridges, including responsibilities such as planning, design, construction, financing, and roadway safety. To ensure the nation's fourth-largest highway system is prepared to serve the needs of South Carolina's growing economy and population, SCDOT has developed a Strategic 10-Year Plan that addresses improvements to the state's highway and bridge systems. Learn more at scdot.org.